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Churchill Brothers' Brazilian midfielder shared his thoughts with Goal.com about how Luis Figo's visit to India was a memorable experience....

Roberto Mendes da Silva better known as Beto, shall cherish the experience of having met Luis Figo for the rest of his life. A chance to interact with one of the best players to have ever played the Beautiful Game will not be passed by any footballer. Beto was one such person who had the unique opportunity to share his thoughts with the former World Player of the Year - Luis Figo.

"It was a unique experience. It felt really good. I was talking to one of the best players in the world. It is something that I will never forget," Beto told Goal.com.

Beto captained the India XI that played an exhibition game against a Goa XI led by Luis Figo as part of the finale of the Youth Champions League (YCL).

"I spoke to him for almost an hour regarding how Indian football is. I explained to him just how much talent is there in India. There is inadequate infrastructure to nurture such talent. I told Figo that if facilities are provided to harness this potential, India can be the top side in Asia," said the Brazilian.

"I also expressed that if Figo had been born in India he would have not been spotted and nurtured through academies like how it takes place in Portugal. Figo was able to gauge how Indian football is at the moment," added Beto.

Beto interacted with Portugese legend Luis Figo for almost an hour

When quizzed about his sublime form in front of goal for Churchill where he has scored six goals in the season, Beto revealed that he was disappointed with the club's third place finish last season.

"When I left Brazil to come to India before the start of the season, I promised myself that I would put in an extra mile of effort to ensure that my club does well and hopefully we can win trophies," said the 33-year old medio.

"The team is amazing and we've lots of quality. We have a great team unity and the desire to win trophies is there. We are working hard to ensure that we put in our best in every game," the Brazilian said.

Churchill Brothers have a local derby match against Salgaocar this week and Beto shared just how his team were preparing themselves for the big match.

"I always tell the boys that we have to look at each game like a mini-final. Every game we do well is like a bit of the league trophy and we are building it each time we do well in a game. The game against Salgaocar is no different as they are a quality side and will be tough to beat. I think the side that makes the least mistakes will be victorious on that day," Beto revealed.

Every footballer has a role model he hopes to emulate. When probed on this, Beto shared with Goal.com that he enjoyed watching Real Madrid and ex-AC Milan midfielder Kaka play. "I like his game as he drives forward quickly and makes a lot of key passes," he said.

On a related note, Beto is a role model for many of India's budding footballers. When asked if he had a message for them Beto signed off by saying, "Never give up and always strive hard to give your best. Stay focussed and you will achieve your dreams."

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